Baby Gear
Congratulations on your new baby! Getting ready for your new baby is a really exciting time, but it can be hard to know what baby gear you need, what might be nice, and what you need to avoid for the safety of your baby.
Safe Sleep
Safe sleep is essential in preventing sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends putting your baby to sleep on her back and in the same room as you, through her first 6 months of life. While there are a number of adorable baby products out there, when it comes to sleep, there are a few things you need to pass on:
- Crib bumpers: there is not sufficient evidence to support that bumpers prevent injury, and because of the risk of suffocation, the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly discourages the use of crib bumpers.
- Blankets and pillows for your baby’s crib: Anything soft like a pillow or blanket increases your baby’s risk of SIDS. Leave them out of your baby’s crib or bassinet.
What you need:
- A crib or bassinet with a firm mattress: Never share your bed with your baby. Your baby’s crib or bassinet should be separate and in your bedroom for at least 6 months. When it comes to your baby’s crib mattress, make sure it’s firm.
- Tightly-fitted sheets: The fitted sheet in your baby’s crib should not be able to come undone. This can increase your baby’s risk of SIDS.
- Warm pajamas or a sleep sack that can’t get tangled. It is also important to make sure that your baby does not overheat. Make sure to dress your baby for sleep appropriately.
- Rear-facing infant car seat
- Infant first-aid kit
- Changing table & diapers
- Rocking chair
- Baby monitor
- Furniture anchors
- Onesies
- One-piece pajamas
- Seasonal-appropriate clothing
- Receiving blankets
- Pacifiers
- Baby soap
- Stroller
Things you need to avoid:
- Pillows & blankets for your baby’s crib
- Mattress pads
- Sleep positioners
- Walkers
- Drop-side cribs
- Baby slings
- Crib tents
- Changing table without 4 sides
This is not an exhaustive list of items. If you have questions, please talk to Dr. Moemeka about baby gear that your child needs.
Be wary of certain products
Be cautious of certain products that play on parent anxiety. The Owlet baby monitor that claims to monitor your baby’s heart rate and oxygen level is not FDA-tested or approved. If you are concerned about your baby’s health while she’s sleeping, talk to Dr. Moemeka.
If you have questions about the safety or efficacy of baby gear, talk to Dr. Moemeka during your next visit to make sure you have everything you need for a happy, healthy baby. Call Mark9 Pediatrics today at (972) 325-2005 to schedule your appointment.